Nearly two dozen US embassies and consulates in and the Middle East were closed this week due to a terror threat from al-Qaeda. The closures came after US officials intercepted an al-Qaeda message about a significant terror plot. There were also four major prison breaks last week that are believed to be al-Qaeda. Thousands of criminals and terrorists have reportedly from prisons in Iraq, Libya, and Pakistan. A global travel alert was also issued, and will remain until the end of August. Travel to Yemen has been strongly discouraged.

Comprehension Questions

Why were so many US embassies and consulates closed?

What does the report say about prisons?

According to the report, which country could pose a danger to travellers?

Discussion Question: The holy month of Ramadan ends this week. Why would security agencies be on high alert for terrorist attacks immediately following Ramadan?

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US Embassies Closed Due To Terror Threat
Nearly two dozen US embassies and consulates in Africa and the Middle East were closed this week due to a serious terror threat from al-Qaeda. The closures came after US officials intercepted an al-Qaeda message about a significant terror plot. There were also four major prison breaks last week that are believed to be tied to al-Qaeda. Thousands of criminals and terrorists have reportedly escaped from prisons in Iraq, Libya, and Pakistan. A global travel alert was also issued, and will remain in effect until the end of August. Travel to Yemen has been strongly discouraged.

Numerous US embassies and consulates were closed due to a terror threat.

The report says that four major prison breaks occurred last week, and many terrorists and criminals escaped.

According to the report, Yeman could pose a danger to travellers.

Written by Tara Benwell for EnglishClubTara Benwell is a Canadian freelance writer and editor who specializes in materials and articles for the ELT industry.